The Ram ProMaster is a full size cargo van that was introduced in 2014.
It can carry heavy loads, offers a wide view from the driver’s seat, and includes multiple standard driving aids.
In this article, we’ll be analyzing all of its the best and worst model years.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Ram ProMaster Are:
The best Ram ProMaster model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, and 2018. The worst model years of this model are 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Ram ProMaster?
2024 and 2023 Ram ProMaster
The 2024 and 2023 ProMaster models are the newest and most sophisticated cargo vans available, featuring the latest in safety features and technological advancements.
New for these model years is a super high roof configuration, updated front-end styling, improved headlights, and a roll-up rear door.
There are a total of 7 trim levels: 1500 Low Roof, 1500 High Roof, 2500 Low Roof, 2500 High Roof, 3500 Low Roof, 3500 High Roof, and 3500 Super High Roof.
Base pricing ranges from around $45,000 to $56,000.
All versions are equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine (276 horsepower, 250 pound-feet of torque) which is more than enough for hauling and towing activities.
The engine is paired to a 9-speed shiftable automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels.
2023 Ram ProMaster:
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.4 / 5.0
2023 Ram ProMaster, Edmunds Review:
“Great vehicle in its class. The payload and hauling abilities are on point as well as interior space. Definitely the most spacious of any van I’ve been in. Smooth ride, handles well for its size, and muscles up hills when fully loaded. Very reliable and mechanically sound. Maintenance and oil changes are dirt cheap…”
2022 and 2021 Ram ProMaster
The 2022 and 2021 ProMaster models offer good value for buyers seeking reliable used vehicles. Not only do they provide robust performance and spacious cargo capacity, but they also feature advanced driver-assistance systems and ergonomic interior designs, enhancing both safety and comfort for long hauls.
New for these models is an all-new 5-passenger crew van variant, upgraded infotainment systems, updated safety equipment, additional driver assistance features, and an all-new 9-speed automatic transmission system.
These models are categorized into 3 main categories: 1500, 2500, and 3500. These represent the respective payload ratings of these vans.
Every model comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that provides 280 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.
While a front-wheel-drive is the standard configuration, prospective buyers can also opt for an all-wheel-drive.
Our favorite safety features include the following:
- Drowsiness Detection
- Blindspot Warning
- Active Drive Assist
2022 Ram ProMaster:
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.4 / 5.0
2021 Ram ProMaster:
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.2 / 5.0
2021 Ram ProMaster, Kelley Blue Book Review:
“Have owned for 3 years and so far no major issues at all. I have the High top and extended model. Handles and rides well. It gets good gas mileage for such a large vehicle.”
2020, 2019, and 2018 Ram ProMaster
For those seeking cost-effective options with proven dependability (especially when compared to models from 2017 and before), the 2020, 2019, and 2018 ProMasters represent an excellent choice, blending affordability with solid performance and durability.
These model years saw the introduction of the following:
- Expanded range of wheelbase and roof height combinations
- Increased maximum towing capacity
- Front-end styling updates
- Standard 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Rearview camera setup
Safety equipment worth noting are ParkSense Rear Park Assist, ParkView Rear Backup Camera, and Cargo Tie-Downs.
Based on owners’ reviews online, the highlights of these models include appearance, comfort, engine power, acceleration, and transmission.
2020 Ram ProMaster:
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.4 / 5.0
2019 Ram ProMaster:
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.4 / 5.0
2018 Ram ProMaster:
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.4 / 5.0
2019 Ram ProMaster, Edmunds Review:
“It’s been 24 months living with the promaster and all is good, mileage has suffered as a result of Minnesota winter, about 15 – 16 MPG with mornings warm up. Otherwise all is good, riding in a tin box full of tools is not a joy, so I hung two moving blankets between the cargo area and the front which quieted things down a lot, also helps with AC and heat. Love all the room…”
Consumer Scores For Best Ram ProMaster Years
| Model Year | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating |
| 2024 Ram ProMaster | – |
| 2023 Ram ProMaster | 3.4 / 5.0 |
| 2022 Ram ProMaster | 3.4 / 5.0 |
| 2021 Ram ProMaster | 3.2 / 5.0 |
| 2020 Ram ProMaster | 3.4 / 5.0 |
| 2019 Ram ProMaster | 3.4 / 5.0 |
| 2018 Ram ProMaster | 3.4 / 5.0 |
Related: How Long Do Ram ProMasters Last? (Complete Guide)
What Are The Worst Years For The Ram ProMaster?
2014 and 2015 Ram ProMaster
The 2014 and 2015 model years of the ProMaster are the most problematic, this is somewhat expected since these were the first versions of the ProMaster to be released.
They experienced a range of issues with the transmission, brakes, and electrical systems.
The main issues included frequent stalling and issues with braking while reversing, further exacerbated by challenges in starting the vehicle.
This was linked to various electrical problems, including the seizure of the cooling fan, leading to vehicle overheating.
“van is having electrical issues causing all light to flash on dash. and van slows down and will only run at 15 miles an hour .very dangerous. all so will not start sometimes…” – NHTSA.gov
The brake system also faced issues, with many owners reporting insufficient brake force at times, alongside multiple warning indicators lighting up and sounding alarms. This issue was traced back to a defective ABS module.
“ … the vehicle crashed into the rear of another vehicle. the air bags did not deploy. a police report was filed. the contact was unaware of any injuries sustained. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the contact was informed that the vehicle was having electrical failures…” – NHTSA.gov
- The 2014 Ram ProMaster had a total of 66 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
- The 2015 Ram ProMaster had a total of 78 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
Common problems:
- Electrical issues
- ABS failure
- Defective brake system
- Transmission failure
- Visibility problems
2016 and 2017 Ram ProMaster
The 2016 and 2017 ProMaster model years continued the trend of issues and frustrations set by their predecessors.
Many of the issues in the 2016 and 2017 models mirrored those of the 2014 and 2015 editions, yet these models also introduced their own distinct problems.
Apart from previously mentioned issues, the most notable and prevalent problem, as reported online, involved malfunctioning exterior lighting.
Headlight failures happened more often than usual, leading owners to replace their headlights promptly, only to find the replacements failing soon after as well.
Using heavy-duty bulbs also resulted in the same outcome.
“the headlamps have been replaced multiple times, way more than they should need. we replaced the drivers side low beam in december 2019, april 2020 and now it is it out again – november 2020. in addition, there are no warning lights to let the driver know the low beam light is out. our vehicle only has 44800 miles on it…” – NHTSA.gov
- The 2016 Ram ProMaster had a total of 61 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
- The 2017 Ram ProMaster had a total of 59 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
Common problems:
- Electrical issues
- ABS failure
- Defective brake system
- Transmission failure
- Defective headlights
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Problems (NHTSA.gov) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Ram ProMaster | – | – |
| 2023 Ram ProMaster | 1 | 0 |
| 2022 Ram ProMaster | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 Ram ProMaster | 3 | 3 |
| 2020 Ram ProMaster | 1 | 2 |
| 2019 Ram ProMaster | 4 | 1 |
| 2018 Ram ProMaster | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 Ram ProMaster | 59 | 12 |
| 2016 Ram ProMaster | 61 | 16 |
| 2015 Ram ProMaster | 78 | 14 |
| 2014 Ram ProMaster | 66 | 13 |
What Problems Do Ram ProMaster Have?
Common problems:
- Electrical issues
- ABS failure
- Defective brake system
- Transmission failure
- Visibility problems
- Defective headlights
- Engine stalling
- Unintended gear shifting
- Steering problems
Related: 9 Best & Worst Ford Transit Cargo Van Years (Facts & Stats)
References
- https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/new-cars/for-sale/ram_promaster-cargo-van
- https://www.edmunds.com/ram/promaster-cargo-van/
- https://www.kbb.com/ram/promaster/
- https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2024/ram/promaster-cargo-van
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/
